Finding an Eye Doctor That Accepts Medicaid in Brooklyn
Good news — you don't have to look far. Vision Palace Optical at 1723 Avenue U accepts Medicaid and has been caring for Brooklyn patients since 1995. We know navigating insurance can feel like a second job, so we want to make it as straightforward as possible: bring your card, come in, and we'll handle the rest.
Our team works with a wide range of Medicaid managed care plans, and we see patients from across Southern Brooklyn — Gravesend, Sheepshead Bay, Marine Park, Bensonhurst, and beyond. If you've been putting off your eye exam because you weren't sure if your coverage would be accepted, this is your sign to book.
What Medicaid Covers for Eye Care in New York
New York State Medicaid — including managed care plans like HealthFirst, MetroPlus, Fidelis Care, and Managed Long Term Care (MLTC) programs — typically covers a comprehensive eye exam once per year. If your doctor determines that corrective lenses are medically necessary, your plan may also cover frames and lenses.
Here's a general overview of what's commonly included:
- Annual comprehensive eye exam — a full evaluation of your vision and eye health
- Corrective lenses — frames and/or lenses when medically indicated, depending on your specific plan
- Follow-up care — if a condition is found that requires additional attention
That said, every Medicaid managed care plan has its own rules. What HealthFirst covers may differ from what MetroPlus covers. We strongly recommend calling us at (718) 998-8400 before your visit so we can verify your specific benefits ahead of time — no surprises at checkout.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Your visit at Vision Palace Optical is relaxed and thorough. We're a neighborhood practice, not a factory — we take the time to actually talk with you about your eyes and your vision.
When you arrive, you'll want to bring your Medicaid card and a photo ID. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring those too so we can use your current prescription as a reference.
A comprehensive eye exam at our office typically includes:
- Visual acuity testing — the classic "read the chart" portion, checking how clearly you see at distance and near
- Refraction — determining your exact glasses or contact lens prescription
- Eye health evaluation — examining the structures of your eye including a glaucoma screening and retinal evaluation to check for signs of conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, or diabetic eye changes
- Intraocular pressure check — a quick, painless test that screens for glaucoma risk
If your Medicaid plan covers frames and lenses, you may be able to choose your frames the same day as your exam. We carry a wide selection of styles — there's something for everyone, from classic to on-trend.
How to Book
Scheduling is easy. You can book your appointment through Zocdoc, or simply give us a call at (718) 998-8400. We're open Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm.
A quick note: walk-ins are welcome for DMV vision tests, but for comprehensive eye exams — especially if you want to make sure we have time to verify your Medicaid benefits in advance — scheduling ahead is the better move. It helps us make sure you're in and out smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vision Palace Optical accept Medicaid?
Yes. We've accepted Medicaid for years and work with many of the managed care plans available to Brooklyn residents. Call us at (718) 998-8400 and we can confirm whether we're in-network with your specific plan.
Do I need a referral for an eye exam under Medicaid?
For most routine annual eye exams, a referral is not required. However, this can depend on your specific Medicaid managed care plan. If you're unsure, it's worth a quick call to your plan's member services line — or call us and we can help point you in the right direction.
What if my Medicaid plan isn't listed on your website?
Don't assume you're not covered. Give us a call at (718) 998-8400 and we'll look up your plan directly. We work with a broad range of Medicaid managed care organizations, and we'd rather check than have you miss out on benefits you're entitled to.
Can I get glasses covered under Medicaid at Vision Palace?
Coverage for frames and lenses varies by plan and is typically approved when corrective lenses are deemed medically necessary. We'll verify your specific benefits during your visit and walk you through what's covered before you select frames. No pressure, no guesswork.
Ready to book? Learn more about what to expect on our eye exams page or visit our Medicaid insurance page for more details on accepted plans. Call (718) 998-8400 or book your eye exam through Zocdoc — we're here Monday through Saturday on Avenue U, ready to help.